Cost Draftsman Legal Costs in Manchester

About the Client

Our client, a leading legal services firm situated in Manchester, is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Cost Draftsman with expertise in legal costs to join their dynamic team. The firm specializes in diverse legal niches, including Housing Disrepair, Financial Mis-Selling, and other legal areas, making this an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful and impactful casework. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in managing and preparing detailed cost schedules and ensuring accurate cost recovery in legal proceedings. This is an exciting opportunity for a legal professional who thrives in a fast-paced and collaborative environment, while delivering exceptional analytical expertise. The client organization prioritizes fostering an inclusive work culture where diversity is celebrated, and innovation thrives through diverse perspectives. Applicants from all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Flexible Working & Salary

This is a hybrid role with 1 day in the office and 4 days working from home. The company is based in Manchester. Salary: £40,000–£50,000 DOE.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and draft detailed bills of costs and schedules for submission to court.
• Manage negotiations of costs with opposing parties and solicitors professionally and assertively.
• Analyze and assess costs to ensure compliance with legal regulations, rules, and case law.
• Develop budgets, cost estimates, and Statements of Costs to support litigation claims, including cases in Housing Disrepair, Financial Mis-Selling, and other legal areas.
• Collaborate with courts, clients, and legal teams to streamline cost recovery processes.
• Provide expert advice to internal stakeholders and clients regarding costs and case management.
• Prepare for cost hearings, including detailed assessment proceedings.
• Stay updated on changes to costs law, regulations, and industry best practices relevant to all legal niches serviced by the firm.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure strict adherence to confidentiality and data protection requirements.

What We’re Looking For

• A strong understanding and hands-on experience in legal cost rules and procedures, with expertise as a Cost Draftsman or in a similar legal role.
• Proven ability to draft and negotiate costs across various legal matters, including Housing Disrepair, Financial Mis-Selling, personal injury, clinical negligence, and commercial disputes.
• Proficiency in preparing detailed cost schedules, budgets, and bills of costs, maintaining high quality and accuracy.
• Familiarity with cost management practices (e.g., Precedent H and Precedent Q).
• Outstanding communication and negotiation skills to successfully manage relationships at all levels.
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Technological aptitude with experience in specialist cost drafting software and legal databases.
• Legal qualifications (such as a Law Degree, LPC, or equivalent) are highly desirable, though relevant experience will also be considered.
• A commitment to continual professional growth and staying updated on developments in legal costs law, especially within the firm's priority practice areas.

Note: If you’re not fully qualified but can demonstrate substantial experience in this field, you will still be considered.

A Day in the Role

• Working closely with solicitors and legal teams to review case files and draft precise cost submissions, including those related to Housing Disrepair and Financial Mis-Selling cases.
• Negotiating cost schedules to maximize recovery while maintaining fairness and integrity.
• Preparing for detailed assessment hearings by compiling and reviewing crucial documentation.
• Contributing to team strategy conversations, sharing insights to improve legal cost management processes and practices.
• Communicating with clients to provide clear status updates on progress and outcomes.
• Conducting research on legal costs law, regulations, and case precedent to proactively advise clients and stakeholders.
• Participating in training programs and skill-development initiatives to ensure continued expertise in the field.

Why Join Our Client

Our client values creating a workplace where every team member feels empowered to excel. They are deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity and offer an environment where your contributions are acknowledged and celebrated. Joining this firm means you’ll have the opportunity to work on significant legal niches like Housing Disrepair, Financial Mis-Selling, and other impactful areas, allowing you to build upon your expertise and contribute positively to society. They welcome applicants from all walks of life, regardless of race, gender, religion, nationality, disability, or sexual orientation. If you are passionate about legal costs and are ready to hit the ground running in a forward-thinking organization, we want to hear from you!

Interested? Apply now to be considered for this rewarding opportunity with our esteemed client.